May 2025

This May has been a busy month. Intense, even. I feel like I've reached several important milestones all at once, maybe too many. Because just a few weeks ago, nothing was really ready. I officially launched my professional account at the beginning of the month on social media, and it's pretty terrifying. I'm not used to using them much, so I have to make them a daily companion—not easy.

I'm not going to lie: this launch required a lot of effort. There was the desire, of course, but also a lot of stress. I was afraid of doing it wrong, afraid of being invisible, or on the contrary too visible and judged. I spent time thinking about my visual identity, finding a tone that suits me, creating content that reflects my world. It's not as simple as it seems, especially when you want to do everything right from the start. But I rediscovered the kindness and support of the people around me who shared a lot, and it feels so good!

At the same time, I had to plan for inventory. Anticipate what might be popular, produce enough without overloading myself, and find a balance between creativity and logistics. It was the first time I had to think in terms of quantities, prices, and presentations. It's super exciting, but also a little scary to go from designer to seller.

And then there was My very first event: the Harumatsuri spring festival, organized by the Amitiés St-Cyr Japon association at the St-Cyr sur Loire dojo. My very first real face-to-face meeting with customers. I spent hours preparing my booth, thinking everything through, imagining the experience I wanted people to have. Once there, I was torn between excitement and the fear of having made a complete mistake: what if my creations weren't liked? What if they were too expensive?

But finally, people came. They looked, touched, asked questions, smiled. I saw their eyes shine in front of certain pieces, I heard sincere compliments, I had simple but precious exchanges. I sold a few pieces to friends who came to support me, but also and especially to people I didn't know! The star of this Sunday: the beach bracelet , its deep blue and its summer feeling were very popular. And although the weather wasn't great, this day did me a world of good. It reminded me why I want to do all this.

Obviously, everything is never perfect. There are low points, doubts, and dips in motivation. Even with all the evidence that I'm capable, even with the positive feedback, doubt is always there. It sometimes arises without warning. And it can be a heavy burden to bear. I'm slowly learning to live with it, to not let it take over.

But if I had to take stock of this month, it would be this: I'm proud of what I've accomplished. Just having dared is already enormous. This is only the beginning, I know, and there's still a lot to build. But I feel like I'm on the right path. And that's worth all the doubts in the world.

Kisses ♥ Alizé